Milan Travel Guide

Stefano
Nov 3
7 min read

Milan is Italy’s modern heartbeat — a city where fashion, finance, and creativity meet centuries of art and architecture. Beyond its reputation for luxury and business, Milan offers travelers a dynamic blend of culture, cuisine, and contemporary life. Whether you’re admiring the Duomo’s spires, exploring the canals of Navigli, or catching an aperitivo at sunset, Milan rewards those who look beyond its sleek surface. This Milan travel guide will help you discover the best things to see, do, and experience in Italy’s most stylish city.

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Milan

Duomo di Milano

The Duomo is Milan’s most iconic landmark — a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that took nearly six centuries to complete. Standing in Piazza del Duomo, it commands awe with its marble façade, intricate carvings, and 135 spires crowned by statues. Visitors can climb to the rooftop terraces for panoramic views of the city and, on a clear day, the Alps. Inside, the vast nave, colorful stained glass, and sculptures create a sense of spiritual grandeur. Don’t miss the golden “Madonnina” at the top, symbol of Milan’s soul. Visiting early in the morning or at sunset gives you the most atmospheric light and fewer crowds. The Duomo is not just a church — it’s a journey through history and devotion that defines Milan’s skyline.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Just steps from the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping arcades and a symbol of Italian elegance. Its glass dome and mosaic floors make it a must-see even if you’re not shopping. Stroll through its luxury boutiques — Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton — or simply admire the architecture, which dates back to the 19th century. Locals call it “il salotto di Milano” (Milan’s living room) because it’s a place to meet, dine, and people-watch. Stop at one of the historical cafés like Camparino or Zucca for a traditional espresso or an aperitivo. The Galleria connects Piazza del Duomo to La Scala theater, linking Milan’s spiritual and cultural hearts in one elegant passage.

The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano)

Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper is one of the most famous paintings in the world, and it’s right here in Milan. Located inside the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, this masterpiece captures the moment Jesus tells his disciples that one of them will betray him. The emotion, perspective, and subtle detail make it a cornerstone of Renaissance art. Because of its fragile condition, entry is strictly limited — book tickets well in advance (often weeks ahead). The visit lasts only 15 minutes, but it’s unforgettable. Seeing the faded yet powerful figures in person gives a sense of connection to both history and genius that no photo can replicate.

Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)

Built in the 15th century by the powerful Sforza family, this massive red-brick fortress once protected Milan’s rulers and now houses several museums. Inside, you’ll find Michelangelo’s unfinished Rondanini Pietà, ancient artifacts, and art collections from the Renaissance to the 20th century. The castle’s courtyards and gardens are free to enter, making it a great stop for a relaxing afternoon walk. Just behind the castle lies Parco Sempione — Milan’s central green lung — where locals jog, picnic, and enjoy the view of the Arco della Pace. The combination of art, history, and nature makes Sforza Castle one of Milan’s most rewarding experiences.

Navigli District

The Navigli canals, originally designed by Leonardo da Vinci, form one of Milan’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. Once used for transporting goods, today they’re lined with trendy cafés, vintage shops, and art galleries. At sunset, locals gather along the water for aperitivo — Milan’s beloved pre-dinner ritual. A spritz, a few snacks, and good company make this one of the best ways to experience authentic Milanese life. On weekends, street markets and live music add to the bohemian charm. Whether you’re walking the canals, dining al fresco, or browsing the artisan boutiques, Navigli captures the city’s creative and relaxed side.

Other Things to See and Do in Milan

La Scala Opera House

Teatro alla Scala is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. Opened in 1778, it has hosted performances by Verdi, Puccini, and Maria Callas. Even if you’re not attending a show, you can visit the museum to see costumes, instruments, and portraits of Italy’s greatest composers. The red velvet seats and golden balconies inside the main hall exude old-world glamour. Tickets for performances range widely in price, but it’s worth attending even once — the acoustics are unmatched. For culture lovers, La Scala is a pilgrimage site in the Milan travel guide.

Brera District

Brera is Milan’s artistic soul — a charming district filled with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and cozy restaurants. The Pinacoteca di Brera museum houses masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Mantegna, while the neighborhood’s boutique shops and flower-filled balconies make it a joy to wander. Stop for a meal at one of the traditional trattorias, where the risotto alla milanese tastes as authentic as it gets. Brera feels more intimate than other parts of Milan — a perfect blend of culture and local life.

San Siro Stadium

For football fans, visiting San Siro is a must. Home to both AC Milan and Inter Milan, it’s one of the most legendary stadiums in Europe. You can take a guided tour that includes the players’ tunnel, locker rooms, and the pitch itself. On match days, the energy is electric — especially during the Milan derby. Even if you’re not a football fan, the stadium represents a huge part of Milanese identity and pride. The nearby museum traces the history of Italian football through memorabilia and interactive exhibits.

Porta Nuova

This is Milan’s modern face — a skyline of glass skyscrapers, public art, and eco-friendly architecture. The Unicredit Tower and the vertical forest (Bosco Verticale) have become icons of sustainable urban design. Porta Nuova also connects to Corso Como, one of the city’s trendiest nightlife areas. It’s the perfect place to see how Milan blends innovation with tradition. Strolling here at dusk gives you a glimpse of a city constantly reinventing itself.

How to Stay Safe in Milan

Milan is generally a safe city, especially in tourist and central areas, but like any major destination, it pays to stay alert. Petty theft, especially pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas such as train stations, trams, or tourist attractions like the Duomo and Galleria. Keep your belongings close, use cross-body bags, and avoid keeping valuables in your back pocket.

At night, Milan is lively and well-lit, but some outer districts (especially near Centrale Station) can feel less comfortable. Stick to main roads and consider taking a taxi or rideshare if returning late. Scams are rare but still exist — avoid people offering “friendship bracelets” or unsolicited help with tickets or ATMs.

Traffic can be hectic, so always check before crossing the street and remember that Milan’s trams share roads with cars. During events like Fashion Week or the Salone del Mobile, crowds increase, and hotel prices soar, so book accommodation early.

Finally, always keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents. With common sense, Milan is a safe, welcoming, and easy city to explore — one that rewards awareness with unforgettable experiences.

Where to Stay in Milan

Hostels and Hotels

Best Hostels (Top 10):

Ostello Bello Grande
Madama Hostel & Bistrot
Combo Milano
Babila Hostel
YellowSquare Milan
MEININGER Milano Lambrate
New Generation Hostel Navigli
Ostelzzz Milano
Queen Hostel
Zebra Hostel.

Best Hotels (Top 5):

Room Mate Giulia
Hotel Spadari al Duomo
NH Collection Milano President
Armani Hotel Milano
Hotel Milano Scala

Milan Travel Costs

Accommodation

Hostel dorms – around €25–€40 per night
Hostel private rooms – €60–€90
Budget hotels – €80–€120
Airbnb private rooms – €60–€100
Airbnb apartments – €120–€180

Food

Street food – €5–€10
Sit-down restaurants – €20–€35
Casual take-out places – €10–€15
Fast food (think McDonald’s) – €8–€12
Beer – €5–€8
Glass of wine – €4–€7
Cappuccino/latte – €2–€3
Bottled water – €1–€2
Groceries for a week – around €60–€80

Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Get the Milan Pass – It offers discounts on attractions, museums, and public transport.
Avoid taxis – Public transport is excellent and much cheaper.
Eat like a local – Try “apericena” (aperitivo buffets) where drinks come with free food.
Stay outside the center – Areas like Porta Romana or Lambrate offer cheaper lodging.
Book The Last Supper early – Buying official tickets avoids expensive third-party resellers.
Refill your water bottle – Milan has public fountains with drinkable water.
Use day transport tickets – A 24-hour pass costs less than two single rides.
Travel off-season – Visit between November and March for lower prices and fewer tourists.

How to Get Around in Milan

Public Transportation

Milan’s metro, trams, and buses are efficient and easy to navigate. The metro has four main lines (M1–M5) connecting all major attractions. A single ticket costs around €2.20 and is valid for 90 minutes. Day passes are great value if you’re exploring multiple areas.

Taxis

Taxis in Milan are safe but pricey. They can’t be hailed on the street — use designated taxi stands or call a service. Expect €10–€20 for short rides within the center.

Ridesharing

Uber operates in Milan (Uber Black and Uber Van), and local apps like Free Now and ItTaxi also work well. Prices are similar to regular taxis.

Bike Rental

Milan is very bike-friendly, with a public bike-sharing system called BikeMi. You can rent a bike through the app for short rides. Many hotels also provide free bikes.

Car Rental

Driving in Milan is not recommended due to ZTL (restricted traffic zones) and parking fees. Rent a car only if you’re planning day trips to the lakes or countryside.

When to Go in Milan

The best time to visit Milan is in spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when temperatures are pleasant, and the city hosts cultural events. Summer can be hot and humid, with many locals leaving for vacation in August. Winter (November–February) is cold but ideal for museums and shopping, especially during the Christmas markets.

Fashion lovers might time their trip to Milan Fashion Week (February and September), while design enthusiasts should aim for Salone del Mobile (April). Whatever the season, Milan’s balance of style and substance makes it worth visiting year-round.